Best Hiking Boots For High Arches 2024

Arch support comes from the insoles, not the boot itself. Most padded hiking boots provide built-in great arch support and if the padding works for you, you do not need to do anything else. The only thing you can do is to find a pair of boots that you love and fit you perfectly. You can then augment them with a super-supportive after-market insole designed for high arches. Since most hiking boots come with a flimsy footbed, they are not suitable for people with high arches. These after-market insoles not only provide arch support but also enhance the overall comfort of the boots. Two of my favorites for high arches are Sole’s Active Insoles and Superfeet Premium Green. They both provide excellent arch support for high arches.

Below we’ve reviewed some of the best hiking boots for men and women. You can use any of them with an after-market insole if you have a high arch.

1. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 14 oz.
Category: Lightweight
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
Upper: Leather

Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX offers the supportiveness and waterproof protection that hikers and backpackers crave. It also borrows the lightweight responsiveness of Salomon’s trail running shoes. A weight-saving alternative to traditional heavy hiking boots, it weighs in at less than 2 pounds per pair. The boot’s durable and breathable synthetic upper has strategic overlays that increase support and stability without adding excess bulk or weight. This construction also allows them to wear right out of the box instead of enduring the long break-in period of a full leather boot.

A gusseted tongue and a full Gore-Tex lining, combined to keep out debris and moisture. Underfoot, Salomon’s advanced chassis provides streamlined structural support. Comfort and fit are enhanced by the boot’s injected EVA midsole OrthoLite sock liner and an EVA footbed. The rubber Contagrip outsole offers excellent grip regardless of the terrain and aggressive lugs increase traction. A rubber front cap takes the brunt of contact with rocks and roots so your toes remain protected. Lightweight, supportive, and protected from the elements, the Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX boot is a great option for hikers, fast packers, and ounce-counting backpackers.

Pros: Solid toe, heel, and underfoot protection for rocky and rough hikes.

Cons: The Quicklace system isn’t loved by everyone.

See the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX See the Women’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX

2. Merrell Moab 3 Mid

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 4 oz.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes
Upper: Pigskin leather/mesh

Merrell Moab 3 Mid is a good entry-level and affordable option for you if you are new to hiking. They are comfortable and feel great considering the price tag. There’s thick padding around the collar and tongue that provides impressive comfort right out of the box. The boot also requires minimal break-in time. The sculpted insole offers surprisingly good arch support for its budget-friendly price. The toe box is roomy and the boot provides an excellent fit with a locked-in heel and reliable lacing system. The secure fit is especially noticeable when tackling steep trails because there is no heel slippage or rubbing. However, these boots lack a sporty feel, which makes them more suitable for casual hikers than those seeking technical performance.

In terms of weight, the Moab 3 Mid weighs 2 pounds 2.6 ounces in a men’s size 9. They are moderately heavy for a boot of its height. While it may not be the lightest option on the market, it offers generous cushioning and a sturdy build. The traction of the boot is decent, with an improved outsole featuring a stickier Vibram rubber compound. It performs well on maintained trails but lacks the aggressive bite and stickiness of premium alternatives. Stability and support are adequate for well-established trails, with a wide and solid base, decent lateral stability, and a flexible forefoot. However, on rougher terrain or when carrying heavy loads, you may prefer a sturdier boot for enhanced stability.

Pros: Great value, affordable, and a well-built design

Cons: Not a standout in mud or on steep rock.

See the Merrell Moab 3 Mid See the Women’s Moab 3 Mid

3. Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 5.6 oz.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes
Upper: Nubuck leather

The Hoka Kaha 2 GTX hiking boots are known for their incredible comfort and support. These boots are built with a thick, cushioned midsole that absorbs shock and makes walking easier on your joints. They also have a high-top design and a wide sole that provides excellent ankle support.

These boots are made of waterproof nubuck leather that will keep your feet dry on wet trails. The leather is durable and will last for many hikes, but it may take a few hikes to break in and feel comfortable. The boots also have a unique heel design that you may need to get used to at first.

Overall, the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX is a great choice for hikers who prioritize comfort and support. However, if you’re looking for a boot that is specifically designed for weak ankles, there may be better options available. Additionally, while these boots are waterproof, they may not be the most breathable option, so keep that in mind for hot weather hikes.

Pros: Super comfortable and supportive with a thick cushioned sole.

Cons: Unique heel design requires some getting used to.

See the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX See the Women’s Kaha 2 GTX

4. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 1 oz.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes
Upper: AirMesh/microfiber/PU

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a hiking boot that combines the best of both worlds: trail running shoes and hiking boots. It’s lightweight and comfortable like a trail running shoe, but it also provides the protection and support of a hiking boot. This makes it a great choice for fast-and-light mountain hikers who want a nimble and quick shoe.

The boot is waterproof and breathable, thanks to a Gore-Tex membrane. It also has a stiff sole that grips well on rock, making it a good choice for technical terrain. However, the sole is not great for mud. If you’re looking for a more cushioned shoe, you might want to consider another option. Overall, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a versatile and comfortable hiking boot that’s a great choice for a variety of trails.

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX fits true to size for some users, but others recommend sizing up for a more comfortable fit. It’s important to consider how much cushion you prefer. This boot offers good support and stability for its weight, but some reviewers found it less stable than heavier mid-weight boots. If you prioritize maximum comfort and cushioning, you might be happier with a different option. However, for hikers who value a lightweight, protective boot that can handle various weather conditions, the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a top contender.

Pros: Good support and stability for its weight.

Cons: Less stable than heavier mid-weight boots.

See the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II See the Women’s Ultra Raptor II

5. Oboz Bozeman Mid

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 10 oz.
Category: Lightweight
Waterproof: Yes (B-Dry)
Upper: Nubuck leather

The Bozeman is a waterproof pair that gives you support and traction for the trails along with stylish aesthetics. The uppers of these boots are hybrid construction featuring durable nubuck leather and breathable mesh. This gives you abrasion-resistant footwear that can feel a lot cooler on warm hikes. Hidden and protected by the uppers, the waterproof-breathable B-Dry membrane in these boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions. These boots are built on a gender-specific last so both men and women can get a supportive and secure fit.

The high-performance insoles provide plush foam under the heel and forefoot with arch support in between. The insoles also have TPU heel cups that provide some shock absorption. The midsoles are dual-density EVA adding to the cushioning. The low-profile lugs on the outsole deliver traction on trails but aren’t so bulky that they interfere with walking on improved or paved surfaces. As is common with Oboz’s gear, these boots include recycled materials. Beyond that, the insoles use BLOOM algae technology, which incorporates sustainable algae biomass for great performance while putting less plastic into the world.

Pros: Lightweight, high-quality construction, stylish

Cons: Not ideal for colder hikes.

See the Oboz Bozeman See the Women’s Bozeman

6. Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
Upper: Nubuck leather

The Anacapa is a lightweight pair of hiking boots that provides maximum cushioning and plenty of foot protection. The upper is made from quality nubuck leather that is backed by a Gore-Tex membrane for full waterproof protection. The boot comes in low and mid profiles both with the same features. It has an extended heal geometry for a smoother heel-to-toe transition. For superior traction and uneven terrain, the Anacapa utilizes a Vibram Megagrip outsole. The EVA midsole offers a balanced cushion ride. One of the eye-catching things in this pair is the sole. This is the highest volume sole across all of Hoka’s lines. There’s a massive cushioning that feels luxuriously comfy even on the hardest of trails.

Engineered with lightweight leather, the collar, mesh laces, and pull tab are all made up of recycled polyester. The Achilles-cradling pull tab on the heel is grounded in a 50% soybean oil-based sock liner. To keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions, the shoe is made up of Gore-Tex footwear fabric with recycled textiles. The shoe is protected by a PFC-free water repellent treatment. The Anacapa is offered in both men’s and women’s styles. So, whether you’re out on a day hike or out on a multi-day trek, the Anacapa will go anywhere you go.

Pros: Very comfortable, good lacing system with a good fit, smooth ride

Cons: Average durability, the outsole wears out quickly

See the Hoka One One Anacapa See the Women’s Anacapa

7. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes
Upper: Leather/mesh

Newton Ridge Plus II is a simple entry-level leather boot for beginner hikers. These boots break in quickly and are ideal for short hiking trips or if you’re just getting into hiking. They are also super affordable. Due to the leather upper and sturdy construction, they lack breathability which is important for longer and strenuous hikes. These boots are comfortable right out of the box for wearing around town or on shorter hikes, as opposed to long, technical outings. Out of the box, these boots look stiff and hard to break in, these boots are quite the opposite. They require a very short time to break in and it also lacks the stiffness that you’d find in most other leather boots.

The boots perform well when it comes to waterproofing. They feature very few seams and the upper is made of almost entirely one piece of leather. This feature makes these boots suitable for rainy hikes and it will keep your feet quite dry. Columbia Newton Ridges Boots are quite durable and they show very little sign of wear and tear. The leather upper is durable enough, the seams do not blow out, and the outsole remains intact. It is a good option in this price range for those who are just getting into hiking or planning on using these boots for occasional or moderate outings.

The boot features an Omni-Grip rubber sole, which provides good traction on moderately rocky trails. For more technical hikes and off-trail scrambling, look for full-fledged hiking boots because they won’t perform very well. These boots are primarily made for entry-level hikers or short hikes. Overall, these are some of the most affordable options available in the market. The price is hard to beat for a waterproof, leather, and ankle-high boot. If you use them on mostly well-maintained trails, they should last a fairly long time.

Pros: Super affordable, good for high arches, comfortable and simple design

Cons: Not recommended for serious hiking, lacks breathability

See the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II See the Women’s Newton Ridge Plus II

8. Salomon Quest 4 GTX

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 14.4 oz.
Category: Heavyweight
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
Upper: Leather

Drawing from their experience making running shoes, Salomon has created a lightweight, weatherproof, and supportive hiking boot the boot has a rugged nubuck leather and fabric upper, promising good abrasion resistance. An interior Gore-Tex performance comfort sock will keep your feet dry. A gusseted tongue and stretch fabric around the back of the cuff keep debris from getting inside. Self-locking eyelets prevent laces from accidentally loosening. A heel strap makes it easy to pull these boots on.

Inside this boot, there’s a dual-density EVA midsole, extra heel foam, a shaped footbed, and an OrthoLite liner all of which provide comfort, stability, and control. Salomon’s 4D advanced chassis offers the support required for backpacking while remaining lightweight. The Contagrip outsole has aggressive lugs to give you superior traction Rubber toe and heel caps protect your foot from rocks and roots.

Pros: Great support and comfort for carrying a fully loaded pack over rugged terrain.

Cons: Only offered in a Gore-Tex version, not made in wide or narrow sizes, not ideal for easy trails

See the Salomon Quest 4 GTX See the Women’s Quest 4 GTX

9. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 7 oz.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
Upper: Nubuck leather

Lowa Renegade is one of the best-selling backpacking and hiking boots on the market today. This boot is meant for multi-days on the trail for backpacking and day hikes as well. While some backpacking boots feel rigid and heavy right out of the box, I have found that this boot provides enough support, enough cushioning to support the heavy weight of a pack, and fits well right out of the box.

This is a Gore-Tex boot so you do have that full waterproof protection all around the boot and it is a leather nubuck upper. You have got some overlays as well so they give added durability with that leather. With any leather boot, there is a little bit of break-in time, so consider that before you take this out on a multi-day trip.

Taking a look at the lacing system, it is an alpine lacing system in which you have got, you know, seven full metal eyelets and you can dial in that fit by lacing those seven eyelets. The midsole is Lowa’s Monowrap construction, which is a PU frame that wraps around the foot. It comes up into the upper part of the boot a little bit more than I have seen on some other backpacking boots.

Underfoot, there is a full-length stabilizer embedded into the midsole that helps just to protect and stabilize your foot. The outsole is made of tried and true Vibram EVO. And if you take a look at the lugs you do have a lot of traction, a moderate-sized heel that gives a lot of support and traction on the trail. You also have some breaking lugs on the top of the boot as well. So if you are going up and downhill you have got confidence in all different types of surfaces. The Lowa Renegade Gore-Tex Mid is lightweight, yet rugged and stable in all conditions. It is perfect for your next backpacking adventure.

Pros: Stable and easy to trust on difficult trails and with a heavy pack.

Cons: The lacing system falls a little short of the Salomon Quest 4D 3.

See the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid See the Women’s Renegade GTX Mid

10. Vasque Talus UltraDry

Weight (Pair): 2 lbs. 7 oz.
Category: Midweight
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
Upper: Nubuck leather

Vasque Talus UltraDry is a perfect day hiking boot that is pretty lightweight, but also pretty supportive. It is going to give you enough support for light backpacking, but it is lightweight enough that it is going to flex with you and move with you if you are hiking fast. The stand-out feature of this boot is that it has a mainly leather upper and you do have a pretty traditional look with this boot. It almost has the look of an older-style backpacking boot that you just got a full leather upper on there, but it doesn’t have the weight of that type of boot.

It is pretty lightweight and it has got some mesh in the upper as well. The waterproof protection is Vasque’s UltraDry so you are protected from water and the elements. The boot doesn’t come up as high as traditional backpacking boots, but it certainly gives you enough ankle support for rugged trails.

On the outside of the boot, there are overlays in key areas of the boot that would be subject to wear and tear a little bit more. There are seven eyelets. The top eyelet is metal and you can cinch that down. The sock liner on the inside of the boot does come out. If you do have your insoles that you need to swap into the boot, those come out nicely.

The footbed of the shoe is a dual-density EVA. So you do have some comfort there and some cushioning. The midsole of the shoe is a molded polyurethane that gives you lots of support when you have long days on the trail. The outsole of the shoe is a Vibram outsole and you have got some multidirectional lugs.

Pros: Light and comfortable; enough support for most backpackers.

Cons: Not the toughest construction.

See the Vasque Talus UltraDry See the Women’s Talus UltraDry

11. Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX

Weight (Pair): 3 lbs. 0.6 oz.
Category: Heavyweight
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex)
Upper: Suede leather

The Asolo Fugitive GTX is a lightweight, waterproof backpacking boot. It is suitable for any length of a day hike on maintained trails in easy to medium terrain. It can be used for backpacking with loads under 30 lbs. The boot’s fabric and leather construction offer a comfortable fit and durability in the area that sees the most abrasion and wear. The Fugitive GTX is fully waterproof and breathable due to a full Gore-Tex bootie and the fabric panels increase the effectiveness of this waterproof-breathable system.

Underfoot you’ll find Asolo’s Duo Asoflex anti-torsion shank to protect the bottom of your foot from the impact of roots and rocks as well as a polyurethane midsole to help cushion your foot on longer hikes. The insole’s top layer is a soft yet very supportive layer that offers shock absorption to your foot all day. The outsole of the Fugitive GTX is an Asolo exclusive called Synchro Rubber which features bi-density rubber and the Asobrake heel design for better traction on steep descents. A speed lacing system at the ankle of this boot allows for quick lacing and fit adjustments.

Pros: Durable upper material.

Cons: Stiff and heavy.

See the Asolo Men’s Fugitive GTX

12. Salewa Dropline

Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 10.2 oz.
Category: Lightweight
Waterproof: No
Upper: EXA-Shell

The Salewa Dropline Mid Hiking Boot is a lightweight and agile boot designed for speed hiking in alpine terrain. The boot is athletic and it delivers a great fit, flexibility, and all-terrain traction. It features a breathable air mesh upper with a supportive 3F system, wrapping EXA Shell cage, and Anti-Rock Heel Cup to lock your foot in place and ensure torsional stability. The high-performance, cushioning, EVA rebound midsole and S Path outsole promote a more natural, smoother roll-off during rapid, dynamic movement and superb stability.

I’m a big fan of the low-cut Salewa Dropline. This mid-cut version provides that same nimble responsiveness. It also equips it with better lateral support and stability for long days on the trail and under the weight of a pack. An integrated Y-shaped connection works in tandem with the lacing to hug your entire foot. It keeps your foot locked in place and eliminates unwanted movement that could otherwise lead to blisters. The stretch cuff increases supportiveness without feeling restrictive or diminishing breathability. An EVA midsole and multi-fit footbed offer cushioning and enhanced fit while the durable Pomoca rubber outsole sheds debris and provides reliable traction regardless of trail conditions.

Pros: Lightweight and agile construction, breathable upper

Cons: Questionable durability and no waterproofness

See the Salewa Dropline

Best Hiking Boots For High Arches: Summary

How to Choose Hiking Boots?

With so many options available, choosing the perfect pair can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, the below section will guide you through everything you need to consider to find boots that fit you like a glove.

Know Your Terrain

First things first, consider where you’ll be hiking most often. Easy, well-maintained trails call for different footwear than rugged, off-trail adventures.

• Day Hiking: For well-maintained trails and day hikes, lightweight hiking shoes or low-cut boots offer good ankle mobility and breathability.
• Backpacking: Backpacking trips with heavier loads require more ankle support and durability. Look for mid-cut or high-cut boots with good cushioning.
• Technical Terrain: For rough, uneven trails with loose rocks or scree, prioritize ankle support and a sturdy sole with good traction.

Consider Your Needs

Think about your hiking style and any specific needs you have.

• Experience Level: Beginners might benefit from more ankle support offered by mid-cut boots. Experienced hikers can explore lighter, more flexible options.
• Weight: Lighter boots are great for agility, but heavier boots provide more support for carrying heavy backpacks.
• Foot Type: Do you have wide feet or narrow feet? High arches or flat feet? Choose boots designed for your foot type to ensure a comfortable fit.

Boot Anatomy

Now, let’s delve into the different parts of a hiking boot and how they affect your experience.

• Uppers: The upper part of the boot is typically made of leather or synthetic materials. Leather offers durability and water resistance, but requires breaking in. Synthetics are lighter and often more breathable.
• Midsole: The midsole provides cushioning and shock absorption. Look for materials like EVA foam for comfort on long hikes.
• Outsole: The outsole is the bottom of the boot that makes contact with the ground. Choose a sole with good traction for the types of terrain you’ll be hiking on. Aggressive lugs provide grip on loose surfaces, while smoother soles work well on hard-packed trails.
• Shank: The shank is a piece of material between the midsole and outsole that provides rigidity and stability. A stiffer shank gives more support for carrying heavy loads, while a flexible shank allows for better foot articulation.

Fit for Comfort

A good fit is paramount for preventing blisters and ensuring a comfortable hike. Here’s how to find the perfect fit:

• Try them on at the end of the day: Feet tend to swell during the day, so this ensures a good fit even after miles on the trail.
• Wear the socks you’ll hike in: Hiking socks are thicker than everyday socks, so factor that in when trying on boots.
• Snug but not tight: Your toes should be able to wiggle slightly, but your heel shouldn’t slip when you walk.
• Walk around the store: Pay attention to any pressure points or areas that rub. Don’t expect them to magically stretch – a good fit is crucial from the start.

Breaking Them In

New boots often need some breaking in before you hit the trail on a long hike. Start with short walks on flat terrain and gradually increase the distance and difficulty as the boots conform to your feet.

Caring for Your Boots

With proper care, your hiking boots can last for years. Here are some tips:

• Clean them after each hike: Remove dirt and debris with a brush or damp cloth.
• Treat leather boots with a waterproofing agent: This helps maintain water resistance and extend the life of the leather.
• Store them in a cool, dry place: Don’t leave them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, which can damage the materials.

Conclusion

Choosing hiking boots for your adventure can be a difficult task especially if you have high arches. Also, boots are critical to your comfort on the trail. So, it is important to do some research to find the right boots that fit perfectly. All you need to find lightweight boots with decent support and waterproofness ability. Our picks above are categorized into three categories: lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight. Lightweight boots are great for day hiking and fastpacking, midweight for most backpacking trips, and heavyweights for rough terrain or hauling a large load.